Discover a tropical haven just outside of Phuket
Photo courtesy of Iniala Shores
For most Hongkongers, a beach vacation provides a much-needed respite from the overwhelming pace of city life. With many turning to the warm and balmy climates of Southeast Asia for a break, destinations like Phuket and Bali are more in demand than ever.
Just a 45-minute drive outside of Phuket, Natai Beach is the tranquil paradise that you need to know about — before other travellers find out about it too. The golden sands are pristine with nary a footprint, and the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea are just the right refreshing temperature under the warm tropical sun.
Lined up along the quiet and unspoilt beach, the recently-opened Iniala Shores is the perfect locale for a detox from your hectic work schedule and your phone. Here, we take you inside the chic five-star villas for a rundown of the most relaxing seaside holiday ever.
The Design
Photo courtesy of Iniala Shores
While stunning beach views are a major draw, the view from inside the villas isn’t half bad, either. Each five-bedroom villa is decorated with the stylish modern traveller in mind, with each room decked out in a different colour scheme and design aesthetic.
From the black-and-gold duplex with dark marble floors to the all-blue suite overlooking the ocean, there’s something for every personality in your group. Be sure to draw a bubble bath with the Jo Malone products provided — listening to the serene sound of tumbling waves while soaking in a curved, sculptural tub is certainly the best way to decompress.
The Pool Views
Photo courtesy of Iniala Shores
Should you feel like going for a dip, a pool is right on your doorstep. Directly facing the sea, the infinity pool is maintained at the perfect temperature and provides prime Instagram fodder. For a cocktail or snack after your swim, classic Thai dishes and fresh coconut water can be delivered to you via a phone call with the villa manager. With immediate access to the beach, there’s no excuse not to take relaxing walks on the sand and watch the sunset.
Unlimited Spa Access
Photo: via ThinkStock
No holiday is complete without a trip to the spa, but at Iniala Shores, the spa comes to you. Each villa is equipped with a spa room on the ground floor, where massage treatments and facials can be booked round the clock, with the therapist ready for you within 15 minutes.
Classic treatments such as hot stone massages and oil massages are a great way to unwind your body, while Balinese sugar scrub and Thai massages are for those feeling a bit more adventure. The resort also features organic facials using products from Pevonia Botanica.
The Culinary Surprises
Photo courtesy of Iniala Shores
Sampling seafood is pretty much a given when you’re in Thailand, and Esenzi takes both the taste and presentation to the next level. The restaurant is located at Iniala Beach House, the Shores’ more extravagant sister location just a 15 minute walk away.
The seasonal tasting menu pays tribute to sustainable produce in Asia, with chef Tim Butler serving up sophisticated creations that include abalones from Monterey Bay and A5 wagyu. The wine pairing with each course is carefully designed, featuring reds and whites from niche producers, such as Katsunuma Winery from Japan and Disznoko from Hungary.
Commune to Wildlife
Photo courtesy of Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Apart from providing a sanctuary for busy travellers, Iniala Shores is also committed to promoting venues that can do the same for animals. The staff is more than happy to help organise a trip to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, the first sanctuary of its kind on the island.
The expansive property acts as a retirement home for retired and abused elephants, previously rescued from circuses and paid rides. The sanctuary, still in its infancy, just welcomed its third elephant, Baan Yen. Feeding these gorgeous animals, seeing them up close, and taking a walk with them in the forest is no doubt bringing a new meaning to the phrase “elephant tourism”.
For more information, visit www.iniala.com/shores.